My recommendation is to take every precaution to prevent going overboard, especially if single-handing. Once you're in the water, your chance of surviving drops incredibly...especially in cold water/weather areas.
Good jacklines,
harnesses and double-ended tethers are key, as are roller
furling head sails, a good storm drogue (preferably a Jordan series drogue), a good PFD (one inflatable for every day use, and a foam one for long term emergencies), good foul weather gear, a good
rigging knife (I prefer Boye Knives) and an
EPIRB.
Any questions, comments, drop me a note.